The whispers spread throughout the stands, collectively echoing through the arena. Eyes, both young and old, glared down at the court, glued to the Washington Wizards’ young phenom. And yet, for A.J Dybantsa, it seemed like just another day at the office.
The pressure didn’t seem to affect the Wizards’ young star, as he averaged 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists over the 2 games he played in Las Vegas. It was an impressive stretch, highlighted by his ability to get to the free throw line and his improvements as a passer.
We now have a small sample of what Dybantsa will look like in the league and his potential strengths. What has been underdiscussed, nevertheless, is whether he has improved on his weaknesses.
Some serious questions existed for the BYU star entering the draft, ones that will continue as the regular season begins. But did the wing flash any signs of progress? Could he be even better than expected?
Dybantsa has the chance to have a transcendent season, after glimpses of great improvement.
Dybantsa’s shot isn’t falling… but he’s creating space
Most of the reactions surrounding the rookie’s debut were positive. However, some concerns were raised about his shooting struggles after he shot just 39% from the field and 9% from 3-point range.
These issues are a carryover from college, where the star’s shot was inconsistent at best. On paper, it’s a sign that the young Wizard has a lot of room to grow. A look at the film, though, tells a different story.
The biggest concern with Dybantsa’s shot has been the consistency of his shooting form. Watching games, this has largely continued, with a brief pause occurring as he raises the ball, usually later into games.
The difference between this make early in a game against the Kings and this miss late against the Jazz is pretty clear. Dybantsa appears to be pressing late in these games, and his form suffers for it, with the early jumper against Sacramento looking much smoother.
Although the wing’s form hasn’t always been consistent, he has shown one improved skill: his ability to create space from defenders. Dybantsa has been able to get to his spots on the floor while also using his physicality downhill to create room.
It may take time for Dybantsa to find consistent shooting form. But if he’s able to create open looks, things will become much easier. It’s much easier to practice making open looks than to learn how to sink contested shots.
The Wizards’ star may not have proved the doubters wrong at NBA Summer League, but he showcased a skill that should help him change the narrative.
The Wizards’ young star showed effort defensively
The other large concern about Dybantsa pre-draft is a much easier fix, hypothetically: his effort defensively.
It was common to see the wing get out-hustled on the glass or flat-out get beat as an on-ball defender. At 6’7 with a 7-foot wingspan, it was clear he had the tools defensively but often lacked the intensity.
It would’ve been easy for Dybantsa to display similar tendencies at NBA Summer League, given the lesser stakes. Nevertheless, the star seemed much more engaged than just months prior. From physical on-ball defense to gathering tough rebounds, the effort was clearly there.
Dybantsa himself admitted he was looking to put a greater focus on defense at the NBA level.
“In college, I was being really lazy on the defensive end, just letting guys blow by me and not being a help-side defender,” he told reporters in Las Vegas. “I definitely want to bring [defense] to the next level.”
By exerting himself more, Dybantsa could become a two-way talent and an even more exciting prospect. The Wizards’ young phenom has a bright future, giving us a glimpse of significant improvements at the next level.
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